
- Paint Type for Crown Molding. There are three types of paint out there: oil-based, latex, and acrylic. Of these three, you’ll want to use either the oil-based or latex paints.
- Preparing Crown Molding for Painting. So, you’ve decided which paint to use and have purchased the materials to get started. Are you sure?
- Painting Crown Molding. By now, you’ve set down your drop cloth and stirred your paint. So, let’s get painting! ...
- Clean Up. Clean up will depend on which paint you decided to use. Latex paint is very easy to clean up. ...
- After Painting. After the painting is when everything will begin to look professional. ...
- Paint Disposal. Okay, so you’re not really done. But you’re almost there. The final step is to get rid of the extra paint.
How much should you charge to paint crown molding?
Cost To Paint Crown Molding. For an average job of about 100 linear feet, the cost to paint crown molding is between $1 and $3 per linear foot depending on the materials used, job size, and size of molding. If you’re going to paint it, you’ll want to do some trial runs with a few different paints.
Do you paint the walls prior to installing crown molding?
Painting the walls and ceiling before installing pre-painted crown moulding saves a lot of time and will look better in the end. Caulking the trim after the walls are painted makes a mess when you run your finger down the trim and does not clean up without leaving unremovable streaks on the new paint surface.
How to paint crown molding before install?
Tips for Painting Crown Molding
- Before or after: While you can paint your molding after installation, it is easier to do it before. ...
- Ventilation: If you do opt for using a spray can or gun, make sure you do it in a well-ventilated area, such as the outdoors. ...
- Thin layers: Remember to keep spray paint layers light. ...
What finish should crown molding be painted?
Crown molding should never be painted in a flat finish, which is already reserved for walls and ceilings. A gloss finish is a durable choice that is also visually appealing. Semi-gloss is the easiest to paint with.

Should crown molding be painted flat or semi-gloss?
Crown molding should never be painted in a flat finish, which is already reserved for walls and ceilings. A gloss finish is a durable choice that is also visually appealing. Semi-gloss is the easiest to paint with.
Do you have to sand crown molding before painting?
Before painting trim or molding, it's best to sand down the entire surface to smooth things out. As you sand, be sure to work in small sections so you don't miss any rough spots.
Does crown molding need prime?
Factory primed crown doesn't have to be primed again before painting. After the trim is caulked and patched, paint two coats and you're done. But painting brown molding is another story. Stained wood needs a prime coat or two after cleaning and sanding.
Can I use ceiling paint on crown molding?
Ceiling paint is typically white, or some variation of white, but more importantly, it is usually painted with a flat finish. For this reason, we do not recommend painting your crown molding using the same paint as your ceiling.
What's the easiest way to paint crown molding?
First, cut in the ceiling and roll it; then paint crown molding; after the molding has dried completely, cut in each wall and roll it. If you're painting the crown molding a light color, apply two coats of paint to ensure good coverage. Always allow each coat to dry for the time frame specified on the product label.
How do you paint crown molding without brush marks?
4:386:25Eliminating "Roping" Brush Marks When Painting - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBoard is covered or whatever you're painting is covered good coverage with paint. And then you workMoreBoard is covered or whatever you're painting is covered good coverage with paint. And then you work that paint into the surface with back and forth strokes until the paint feels evenly.
How do you prep and paint crown molding?
4:3112:22How To Paint Crown Molding ( With Tape ) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow you'll notice my brush is about half the width of the chronal mold. And so what we once we getMoreNow you'll notice my brush is about half the width of the chronal mold. And so what we once we get going what we're going to do is paint top half of the crown mold. Things all the details. And then go
Should crown molding be darker or lighter than walls?
Crown molding not only adds visual appeal to any room, but actually gives the impression of raising the ceiling to make the room appear larger. Crown molding should be painted lighter than your walls to create a slight contrast and draw attention to the space's architectural beauty.
Should crown molding be the same white as the ceiling?
If your crown moulding is going into a room with high ceilings, you may want it to be the same color as the ceiling to make the room appear smaller. The opposite is valid for a room with low ceilings, as a trim in a contrasting color will make the room appear more spacious.
Do you paint crown molding same color as cabinets?
Painting crown molding is usually straightforward – just paint it the same color as the rest of the trim or woodwork in the room (the baseboards, door casings, and window sills).
What happens if you don't sand trim before painting?
One coat of paint usually won't hide the underlying color and sheen on trim. And if you don't sand the surface smooth between coats, the finish may have a grainy texture. For a smooth finish, sand the trim before applying each coat of paint.
Can you just paint over painted trim?
If your trim is in good condition and you just want to do a quick change to the color, you can simply clean it, tape it off, and paint based on what's already on the trim (oil-based over oil-based, latex over latex).
How much do you have to sand trim before painting?
Prepare the Trim In kitchens, use a sponge and soapy water to remove grease buildup from the trim. Scuff-sand the surface of the trim. Start with coarse, 80-grit sandpaper and then move to less-coarse 100- and 120-grit. If the trim is new, use only 120-grit just enough to remove any sheen from the surface.
Do I need to sand trim before priming?
You'll need to scrape* away any loose, flaking paint*, fill holes with wood filler and sand* before priming to ensure a good base surface for your paint to adhere to.
What color walls go well with gray crown molding?
A chic but popular combination is pink walls with gray crown molding. This option is perfect when you want to achieve a feminine style for your space. It also works well in a shabby chic design scheme.
Why do you match crown molding?
A benefit of matching your walls and crown molding is that it can make a small room appear taller. Without a color break between the molding and walls, the walls can look higher than they actually are.
What to do with dark walls?
Pairing dark walls with natural wood crown molding is another option. This look can create a cozy and comfortable feel. It’s also a good option if you have a more rustic-themed home.
How much does it cost to install crown molding?
If you just want to install crown molding in a single room, this price ranges from $300 to $800. Expect to pay much more if you have a larger home or want a more custom design or installation. This can range from $3,200 to $12,000, sometimes even $15,000 or more.
What is the most popular color in interior design?
Shades of blue are frequent Pantone colors of the year and one of the most popular interior design colors. Blue walls are exceptionally popular, and incorporating blue crown molding can create a unique look for this popular trend.
Can you paint crown molding in a semi gloss finish?
Painting crown molding the same color as your ceilings but in a semi-gloss or gloss finish can help it stand out. This glossier finish will create a distinguished look from the ceiling.
Does flat finish make a ceiling look lower?
A flat finish on your crown molding can make shorter ceilings feel lower. If you have tall ceilings, flat finish paint may not have as much of an effect on them. It can also reduce the formality of crown molding if you aren’t interested in it.
What paint should I use for a glass wall?
Oil-based paints create a beautiful, glass-like finish, while latex paints can range from flat to glossy. Many painters recommend a shinier trim than what the wall is painted (so, if you use eggshell on the wall, consider semi-gloss on the trim).
How to clean paint brushes after using paint thinner?
Soak the paint brushes in the first tub of paint thinner for about five minutes. Using nitrile or chemical-resistant gloves (not latex), clean the bristles in the thinner. Afterward, soak the brushes in the other tub and repeat the process. At this point, you should have very little paint coming off the brushes. Lay the brushes out to dry fully. If you allow the paint thinner to sit for 24 hours, the solids will drop to the bottom of the tub. You can pour off the clean thinner back into the bottles to be reused.
How to clean latex paint brushes?
Latex paint is very easy to clean up. Since it is water-based, you can simply wash the brushes off in a sink using soap and water. Be sure to run the water through the bristles several times until the water runs clear. Be careful with the bristles if you want to reuse the brush for another day.
How long does it take for paint thinner to dry?
At this point, you should have very little paint coming off the brushes. Lay the brushes out to dry fully. If you allow the paint thinner to sit for 24 hours, the solids will drop to the bottom of the tub.
How to get rid of spider webs on molding?
This will also remove dust and sanding particles to make sure the paint sticks properly.
How to dispose of paint in a can?
If you used latex paint, this is a bit easier to dispose. If there is less than an inch of paint in the can, simply leave the lid off and allow it to dry completely. If there is more than an inch, pour it into a card board box to dry or mix with kitty litter to help it dry more quickly. Leave the lid off of the can, and throw out the dried can.
Can you paint crown molding?
So, when you’re ready to paint your crown molding, you’ll likely wonder if there are any extra steps you should take. Painting crown molding does require a few extra steps, but it can be just as easy as painting a regular wall if you follow these instructions.
What paint should I use for crown molding?
Semi-gloss and high-gloss paint is ideal for crown molding because it makes each detail shine. Paint with a shiny sheen is easier to maintain than flat or eggshell paint, allowing for light reflection. It also gives the molding a sense of elegance.
How much does it cost to paint crown molding?
It depends on several things. For example, renting equipment (like a high-quality sprayer) may be cheaper than purchasing one. It’ll run you around $40-$120 a day.
What is the best way to protect walls from paint transfer?
You’ll also need to prep the ceiling and walls with tape. The masking tape will prevent paint transfer. It’ll also keep the edges crisp. Many professionals use plastic sheeting along with tape to protect the walls, floors, and furniture. The plastic sheets can be attached to the tape.
What is pre painted molding?
Most pre-painted moldings have a specially formulated paint that prevents scratches and scuffs. It also leaves a smooth, crisp factory finish. These moldings are ideal for high-traffic areas.
Why do you need to add paint extender?
If you notice that the paint is drying at a fast rate, add paint extender. Seriously. Some people think that fast-drying paint is an ideal choice because it means the job is finished faster.
Do you prime crown molding before painting?
If your crown molding is bare, you’ll want to prime it first before applying the first coat of paint. The primer acts as a sealant and bonding agent for the paint to adhere to the surface. You’ll also have a better chance of obtaining a smooth finish if you apply paint over dried primer rather than bare wood.
Can you use a paint extender to thin out paint?
When the paint is thick or dries rapidly, it can be harder to apply a mark-free smooth finish. A paint extender will thin out the paint and make it easier to use. It’ll also extend the drying time.
What kind of paint should I use for crown molding?
Crown molding made of wood is commonly painted with latex semi-gloss paint in a white finish. Latex paints bond well to Styrofoam molding and coating the surface with a white semi-gloss paint finish gives the convincing resemblance of wood molding and provides a beautiful shiny finish. Painting Styrofoam crown molding is accomplished using a paint brush or sprayer. Using a paint sprayer provides a factory-like spray finish. The smooth surface of semi-gloss paint also allows easier cleaning.
Is styrofoam a good substitute for wood?
Styrofoam crown molding is an inexpensive alternative to costly wooden crown molding. Styrofoam molding is lightweight, easy to cut and much easier to install than heavy wood molding. Once fully installed and painted, the material closely matches the appearance of real wood. Choosing paint for Styrofoam crown molding is similar to selecting paints for molding made of wood.
Can you paint styrofoam with enamel?
Traditionally, enamel paints were only available in oil-based products, but now you can purchase latex enamels. Oil-based enamels and paints are not suitable or recommended for painting Styrofoam crown molding. However, latex enamel does not harm Styrofoam and gives the illusion of real wood. A latex enamel finish resembles the sleek look of oil-based enamel and provides a surface harder than a typical semi-gloss paint.
What finish paint to use for crown molding and baseboards?
I am painting my living room, hallways & kitchen walls with Benjamin Moore Shoreline 1471 with an eggshell finish.
What extender is best for BM paint?
Floetrol is an older product that is not compatible with the new waterborne paints. The best extender for BM paints is BM Extender. It is made with the same resin, "extends" the working and dry times, but doesn't compromise the final hardness. XIM Extender is also good.
Can you paint with satin paint?
You can paint with satin paint. Its personal preference. Just make sure you use a paint meant for trim, on all the trim. Not regular wall paint. Since you seem to want to paint with Benjamin Moore paint, a suggestion for trim, would be BM Advance.
Is semi gloss easy to clean?
I only use satin. I think semi gloss looks a little dated especially in a more traditional style home. It’s slightly less easy to clean, but your trim shouldn’t get very dirty unless it’s a college rental
Is BM Aura paint good?
BM Aura is very nice paint. I have only used it once. (IIRC, it was originally formulated for very deep, rich colors.) If low traffic & no children, it should be fine for your walls. I used it in a dark navy on a couple of nightstands, and it has stayed a little soft. Because of that, I wouldn't recommend it for trim.
Is Scuff X paint matte?
If you haven't bought your wall paint yet, take a look at Scuff X. The sheen level in Scuff X runs a little higher, but it also comes in matte. It is great paint! We have it on the walls and trim in our lower level. (For the trim, it was sprayed.)
what type of paint to use on molding
What type of paint satin, semi-gloss, high-gloss is best to use on molding (crown, baseboard, etc.) I trough high-gloss was best, but someone recommend semi-gloss as it give a better finished look
Comments (2)
Most DIYers can achieve a smoother finish with semi and satin paints/finishes than with gloss. Getting a smooth finish when using gloss requires some practice and good or better---not average or cheap---equipment. A $3 paint brush will leave a streaky finish when using gloss paint, for instance.
What is the easiest type of crown molding to install?
The less expensive types of crown molding—PVC, polyurethane, and polyethylene—are easiest to install. Successful installation of MDF or wood crown molding requires intermediate carpentry skills.
What can carpenters do with crown molding?
Finish carpenters can create large cornices by combining crown molding with additional types of molding, such as baseboard, bead board, cove and other types of trim to produce an imposing custom look. Photo: istockphoto.com.
What is crown molding?
In generic terms, today’s crown molding is any horizontal trim that separates the walls from the ceiling or adorns the tops of other architectural elements, such as door casings and cabinets. More specifically, crown molding is the term for a particular trim shape contoured to fit at an angle between the wall and ceiling .
How to cut corners of molding?
For an inside corner, measure to the corner and transfer the measurement to the back side of the molding; then make a 45-degree cut to create an angle where the back side is longer than the front side. For an outside corner, transfer the measurement to the front side of the trim and cut the angle in the opposite direction to create a 45-degree angle with the front edge as the longest point. For best results, follow the old carpenter adage: Measure twice, cut once!
How does crown molding attach to the ceiling?
Wood crown molding attaches with finish nails or finish screws to both the ceiling plate and to the wall studs. If you’re having oversize crown molding installed, your carpenter may have to install additional blocking in the ceiling to support the weight of your ornate decorative accent.
How much does crown molding cost?
Simple wood crown starts around $1 per foot for plain pine and goes up in price depending on size and ornateness. You could pay as much as $30 a foot for large hardwood crown molding that features elaborate milled designs.
How to make a 45 degree miter?
Start by making 45-degree miter joints on both inside and outside corners. (A miter joint is a joint where the ends of two separate pieces are cut on an angle and fitted together.) Use a miter saw or a hand-held coping saw to create sharp, precise cuts.
How to smooth moldings again?
To smooth the surface again, give moldings a light once over again with 120-grit sandpaper.
How do you paint trim neatly?
Here are our top tips to get a crisp finish when painting moldings, without a brushstroke or drip in sight:
What is gloss paint?
Gloss paint: As the name suggest this is a high gloss paint for a shiny finish. It has fallen out of favor recently, with many preferring matt finishes as gloss can highlight brushstrokes and imperfections. It wipes down well making it practical for kitchens or bathrooms, but can take a long time to dry when you paint.
How to avoid uneven marks in paint?
Never overlap: Avoid uneven marks by not working in the paint too much and by not starting to paint, over an already painted area. Brush off the surface: With each stroke, start in an unpainted area but work in towards painted sections, ensuring you brush off with each stroke to lay off the paint neatly.
How to stop sap from leaking out of wood molding?
Begin by applying a knotting solution to softwood moldings. This prevents sap from leaking out and into your paint finish.
Should I paint trim before or after walls?
Some recommend painting molding before the walls as it's easier to tape and protect than the wall however, this could actually be more hassle (and mess) than it's worth and we'd recommend painting trim after your walls and ceiling are painted. Kaitlin Madden, Global Editor-in-Chief of Real Homes and savvy DIYer always paints baseboards and other room trim last. 'I always do them after because I feel like it's easier not to get trim paint on walls than it is not to get wall paint on trim, since the wall paint can drip down on the trim.'
Can you paint trim and molding?
While painting trim and molding in your home might not have as dramatic an effect as painting walls, it is amazing how a fresh coat of paint on interior woodwork like baseboards and architrave will smarten up your interiors. How you approach the job of painting moldings around your ceiling, walls, windows and doors will very much depend on whether ...
